Outgoing Hudson County Freeholder Maurice Fitzgibbons of Hoboken was lauded by his colleagues yesterday afternoon during his final meeting in office as they recounted individual instances they said demonstrated Fitzgibbons's kindness or dedication.

When asked what he considered highlight of his 15-year tenure as a freeholder was, Fitzgibbons said it was his tenure as chairman of the board of chosen freeholders.

Fitzgibbons decided against seeking a sixth three-year term.

His successor, Anthongy Romano of Hoboken, is to be sworn in during the board's annual reorganization meeting, 9 a.m. Jan. 2.

Fitzgibbons, who said he has known Romano for many years, wished the newcomer to the board the best of luck in his new job. He also said he hopes that freeholders will manage to maintain their independence and not simply vote the way the mayors of their respective municipalities want them to.

"I can say that Dave Roberts has never called me up and demanded that I vote his way on an issue," Fitzgibbons said of Hoboken's mayor.